King of Prussia Soot and Smoke Clean-up

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allow us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of King of Prussia will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises, therefore, smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

How to Keep Warehouse Workers Warm

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Tips for Staying Warm in a Warehouse During the Winter

Unfortunately, it’s the nature of a warehouse to be cold during the winter. With large loading doors opening and closing frequently during the day and night, it can seem nearly impossible to keep your warehouse warm during winter. Not only is this problematic from a facility management standpoint, but it can also create a less than comfortable workspace that is challenging for your workers. There are ways, however, to combat the cold in your warehouse during the winter, lower your utility bills, improve productivity, and provide a comfortable environment for your employees.

KEEPING THE WAREHOUSE WARM

During the winter, especially in colder climates, it isn’t going to be possible to keep your warehouse at a comfortable 72 degrees. Your loading bay doors will need to be open regularly, which allows cold air to come into the warehouse, keeping the temperatures low. However, there are ways that you can increase warmth in your warehouse, creating a more comfortable place to work.

1. Check the Doors. If the loading doors don’t need to be open all the time, make sure that they are closed. This is the easiest way to keep your warehouse at a more comfortable winter temperature. Doors that need to be open on a more constant basis can be fitted with plastic sheeting that will allow easy movement through the door but provides some barrier from the elements outside. Before it gets too cold, it’s also a good idea to make sure that your loading area doors are well sealed. This will reduce drafts, making a better barrier for your warehouse when the doors are closed. Finally, make sure that your doors are maintained and the motors to lift the doors are functioning properly. This will reduce the likelihood that a door will get stuck open when the weather is poor.
2. Improve Warehouse Airflow. Airflow patterns in warehouses can be challenging. There are a lot of barriers that disrupt smooth airflow through your warehouse, and high ceilings tend to hold on to the warm air. Improving the way air moves through your warehouse can make a substantial difference in the overall climate in your facility. There are few ways that this can be accomplished.
   • Fans – this is a relatively inexpensive way to improve airflow in your warehouse. Using high volume low speed (HVLS) fans can help move warm air through your warehouse, and pull warm air away from the ceiling. Fans are low energy, so installing fans in your warehouse will not make a significant impact on your utility bills.
   • Warehouse Layout – Look at the configuration of your space. How are the shelves arranged? Do your aisles create wind tunnels? If your warehouse layout allows cold air to move easily from the doors to the rest of the building, it may be time to consider moving things around.
   • A Shelving Upgrade – This is probably the costliest way to improve airflow. If you have solid shelving but could convert it to low-profile wire shelving, you can greatly increase the airflow in your warehouse. These shelves aren’t practical for all warehouses, but they may be a good solution in the right facility.
3. More Heaters. If you find that you have spots that are constantly cold, despite making other changes, the best solution may just be adding more heaters. New radiant heaters are highly efficient and create a good amount of heat for large spaces.
4. Service Your HVAC System. Finally, make sure that your HVAC system is ready for the winter. Have an HVAC professional visit your facility and give your system a good tune-up and service to ensure that it is functioning as efficiently as possible.

Top 6 Causes of Commercial Water Damage

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Major Causes of Water Damage
Did you know that a leaking faucet can cost you more or less 250 gallons of water each month? There are 12 months in a year; do the math and you will get an idea of the amount of money you get to waste each year for a single unfixed leaking faucet. Below are the 6 most common causes of commercial water damage.

Damaged sprinkler system
The law requires all commercial entities to have a sprinkler system, along with a fire alarm, installed in the building for safety purposes in case of fire. The sprinkler system should only get activated when there is too much heat from the fire. However, over time, the sprinkler can get broken and malfunction. When this happens, the sprinkler can get activated even without fire leading to serious flooding within the building.

Roof leaks
The roof should protect the occupants and everything within the building from external elements such as the heat from the sun and rain. But a leaky roof does otherwise. As the roof gets older, it also becomes more vulnerable to heavy rains and snow, resulting in water damage to your building’s roof.

Broken HVAC system
Your business’ HVAC system is an essential part of maintaining the temperature of your building and to make its occupants comfortable. Studies have also shown that your HVAC system can also impact the productivity level of your employees. However, like any other part of your commercial building, your HVAC system can also experience issues such as clogging and leaking. An HVAC system that is not cleaned and maintained regularly can cause water damage from the excess water in the compression tanks.

Broken equipment and appliances
Sometimes, your building may have appliances such as a water heater, AC, washing machine, and others. Apart from that, there are also pipes within the building that can get damage anytime and cause water damage in the commercial space. Major problems happen if these equipment and appliances get broken and no one notices it or during off-hours as it can leak a significant amount of water.

Damaged windows
Another common cause of water damage in commercial buildings is damaged windows. Rainwater and moisture can seep through especially if the windows are not properly maintained and need re-caulking. While it may not cause immediate flooding, it can do great damage to the drywall and can encourage mold growth.

Natural disaster
Apart from the damage to your building’s foundation and roof, water damage in commercial buildings can also be caused by natural disasters like hurricanes, thunderstorms, and heavy rain resulting in flash floods. Clogged gutters can lead rainwater to flow towards the foundation of your building, making it more vulnerable to water damage.
Commercial water damage is a devastating problem that any business owner can experience. While there is no way to totally get rid of the threats of water damage on your building, knowing its most common causes will help you minimize the risk.

Steps to Take Immediately After a Storm Damage

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Storm damage can occur at any time and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home. Heavy rains can cause flooding and powerful winds can cause roof damage and downed trees on your property. Some post-storm damage can create safety and health hazards as well, so having a strategy to deal with damage will help you to be ready to take steps immediately after the storm.

Take Safety Precautions

Heavy winds and rain can create physical hazards such as collapsed roofing materials, window damage, collapsed walls, or standing water in the basement or home interior. In addition, moisture can soak into furniture, carpeting, and building materials making the perfect environment for mold growth that can cause health effects. Shut off the main gas line if you smell gas. Beware of broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp objects on the property. Contact a reputable property restoration company to help do basic tasks to secure your property and make it safe to use. If necessary, arrange for an alternative place for you and your family to live while your property is being restored to safe living conditions.

Photograph the Damage

If it is safe to move around your property, use your cellphone or a camera to photograph the damage so that you will have a record for your insurance company. This action will ensure that you are fully compensated.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance agent to notify them about the damage to your home immediately. The company will send out an adjuster to determine the extent of the damage so that payment for repairs can be made.

Spring Showers Can Leave Lasting Damage!

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

Soaking up the sun in spring is ideal, however, April showers can leave you soaking up floodwaters instead. If you live in a high flood area, overwhelmed sewer drains can cause waters to rise around your property leading to potential water damage. Water damage is destructive and can leave lasting damage around your property. If you don’t act quickly, mold growth, rust build-up, and rotting wood may permanently damage your home. Here are a few tips on how to dry your home fast after it floods.

Electrical Safety First

Take precaution before entering areas of your home with significant amounts of water. Nearby electrical units, especially furnaces, can be dangerous and must be turned off immediately to avoid personal injury. Call the power company to disconnect electricity if needed.

Drying Up the Water

Once the floodwaters clear, dry your home as quickly as possible. Start by soaking up the water with towels, buckets, or a Shop-vac. Following this, use floor fans and open all doors and fans to improve air circulation in the house.

If needed, dehumidifiers are available to remove embedded moisture in wood floors and walls. In this case, it is important to close windows so that outdoor moisture does not enter the room.

Remove House Decor

Start by placing all furniture and rugs outside to be dried by the sun. After the furniture has been removed, it is important to check the drywall around flooded areas. Drywall may need to be cut and tossed to prevent mildew and other bacteria from growing within the walls.

The source of the floodwaters, like river water, may contain sewage or other bacterial contents. Once damaged items have been removed, make sure to disinfect all surfaces with an anti-bacterial solution or with a bleach and water mix.

Sometimes the water damage to your home is overwhelming. Insulation damage behind the walls can lead to mildew and mold. Electrical wires connected to furnaces, water heaters, or gas valves may need to be replaced if not inspected properly. Call your local SERVPRO if you are in need of professional Inspection.

If you have mold or water damage, call SERVPRO at 610-546-2484 to schedule a cleanup.  Your SERVPRO professionals have the training, certifications, and equipment to remediate mold.

Fire Protection in Retail Stores

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

In a retail business, providing excellent customer service is important to the success of your business. Excellent customer service includes helping them find the product they want, but it also means promoting their safety and wellbeing. One great way to improve the safety of your customers is to have a fire protection system installed in your retail facility.

Fire Protection Systems

Making sure your facility is equipped with the right fire protection system will improve safety and help protect your inventory during a fire.

• Fire Alarms – Fire alarms are very important in retail stores. If you have a large store, you must have a fire alarm system that will alert customers who are in all parts of the store that there is a fire. You may also want to consider fire alarm monitoring for your store in case a fire breaks out at night when no one is around. Fire alarm monitoring systems will alert the fire department that there is a fire at your facility, even if no one is around to call 911.
• Fire Sprinkler Systems – Fire sprinkler systems are important to protect the safety of the customers and prevent extensive damage to inventory. When heat from a fire activates a sprinkler system, it will release water onto the flames to prevent the fire from spreading.
• Fire Extinguishers – Fire extinguishers should be placed throughout the store, especially near flammable products. Depending on the materials present, you may need different types of fire extinguishers. In most cases, ABC fire extinguishers will be adequate because they put out fires from flammable liquids, electronic equipment, and burning paper or plastic. Make sure your staff is trained on how to use fire extinguishers, so they can use them if a small fire breaks out.

Inspections & Testing

Regular inspection and testing of your fire protection systems are necessary for a retail store. If your fire alarm or fire sprinkler systems are not working properly, it can have devastating consequences during a fire. Inspecting and testing your systems will also help your business comply with the fire code so you can avoid costly fines. Many fire protection companies will provide regular inspection and testing of your systems with minimal disruption to your business.

Why You Should Hire a Professional to Find Your Leaks

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

Whenever you have a problem with your home, the first impulse is usually to tackle the problem yourself. Sometimes this can be the right choice, and the problem’s easy enough to solve on your own. Other times it’s much safer and smarter to call in the pros from the beginning.

Tracking down tricky leaks is one of those times. Sure, some leaks are easy to track down, but water has a way of traveling odd paths. So once finding a leak gets tough, then it’s time to call in some help. And here’s why:

They Know Where to Look

Water can travel strange paths before it finally comes out into your home, and you might be surprised how far it can come. That discolored spot on your basement ceiling could actually be caused by a leak in your roof or your wall on the opposite side of the house.

Professionals have tracked down hundreds, even thousands of leaks over the years. That experience gives them a wide variety of usual suspects to check, and a good number of unusual ones, too.

They Know What to Look For

That slight, turquoise line along your copper pipe? That’s where water has run along the outside and caused the copper to oxidize. It’s a sure sign that a leak is sending water traveling on the wrong side of the pipes.

Pros know these and dozens of other signs. What looks like a bit of dirt to you might indicate a serious leak in your roof, foundation, or wall. Or it might just be some dirt. A professional will be able to know the difference for certain.

They’ve Got the Right Equipment

Most of us can only use our eyes or sense of touch to lead us to water, but not the professionals. They have a wide variety of specialized equipment that can sense moisture and humidity through walls or probe underground for water deposits using ground-penetrating radar.

This equipment can be expensive to buy and tricky to use. They have years of experience using the equipment, and know-how to put it to good use.

They Know How to Fix It

Once a professional has found the leak, they’ll know the best way to fix the leak, and will usually be able to take care of the work themselves. The truth is, any professional who comes to repair the leak will have to track it down anyway, even if you have a good idea where the leak is.

By using a professional in the first place, you remove that step from the process, saving you money and getting the leak repaired sooner.

Broken Pipe Season

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

It comes as no surprise that when the temperatures drop, your home or business can experience problems that come with the cold.  In this blog we want to outline 6 tips you can do to help lower your chances of coming home to a disaster!

Tip 1: Keep the Heat On!

This can be a make or break to coming home to a burst frozen pipe.  Many people look to escape the winter months and go on vacations to a warmer destination.  Be sure to keep your heat on when you're away!  It doesn't need to be as high as it usually is, as you don't want to waste a lot of electricity when you're not at your home, so around 50º-55º F should keep those pipes warm enough.

Tip 2: Allow Faucet(s) to Drip.

If you're worried a pipe might freeze, allow your faucets to slightly drip.  Allowing the faucet to be open like this will relieve pressure in the system. If a pipe freezes, it is actually the pressure that is created between the blockage and the faucet that will cause the pipe to burst. Allowing the faucet to be open will prevent this pressure from building up and thus, keep the pipe from bursting.

Tip 3: Keep Inside Doors and Cabinets Open

Pipes are often located in cabinets, like under your sink. When the temperatures drop, it is a good idea to keep these cabinet doors open so that the heat from the rest of the house can keep the pipes warm as well. You should also keep all interior doors open so that the heat can flow throughout the home.

Tip 4: Seal Cracks and Holes

You should caulk any holes or cracks that exist near pipes. This should be done on both interior and exterior walls. Doing so can help keep the cold air out and the warm air in.  If you don't consider yourself a caulking extraordinaire, give SERVPRO of Eastern Main Line/Bala Cynwyd a call as we also have a construction side of the business and will happily walk you through the process :)  

Tip 5: Apply Heating Tape

For pipes that are easily accessible, the electrical heating tape may be an option to keep them from freezing. This tape can be applied directly to the pipe.  There are two types of heating tape. One type of heating tape turns on and off by itself when it senses heat is needed. The other type of heating tape needs to be plugged in when heat is needed and unplugged when not in use.  Much like a space heater, these products can be dangerous, so you must follow the product’s direction and safety procedures exactly.

Tip 6: Add Extra Insulation

Pipes that are located in areas that do not have proper insulation, such as basements or attics, may need extra insulation to keep from freezing. Pipes in basements or attics are not the only ones that may not be properly insulated from the cold. If you have had a problem with pipes freezing anywhere in your home, extra insulation could be the cure.

Pipes can be fitted with foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves to help decrease the chances of freezing. This can be an easy solution for pipes that are exposed but can get expensive if walls, floors or ceilings have to be opened in order to properly insulate the pipe. Additional insulation can also be added to walls and ceilings to keep the pipes warm.

There is no full proof way to prevent all pipes from getting damaged during these cold winter months, but anything you can do in advance to help prevent a disaster will always be a good bet.  If you do experience any disasters this winter give us a call at (610) 667-9080, we're available 24/7!

Plan for Disaster NOW to Avoid Delays LATER!

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Are You Ready? Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever could happen?” The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile is a start up approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile, your business will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO® is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

• A no cost assessment of your facility.
  This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
   
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
  It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
   
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
  This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
   
• Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
  You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.
   
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
  This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
   
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
  Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."

Weekend Weather in Philly

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

Getting around the Philadelphia region on Saturday afternoon may be slow thanks to a winter storm that will bring snow.

We've issued a First Alert from noon until 6 p.m. Saturday for Philadelphia, the Pennsylvania suburbs and the Lehigh Valley.

The storm will move in midday bringing light snow. The precipitation should pick up as the afternoon continues.

When the storm begins, the ground will be cold enough for the snow to stick. That could create trouble on the roads so drivers will want to take extra caution.

The storm center will sit well to the north so warm air will be dragged across the area by the late afternoon melting snow and turning the precipitation to rain.

Snow totals will likely be 1 inch or less for most of the affected area. Towns in the Lehigh Valley may see slightly higher accumulations.

By Sunday morning the area should dry out and stay cold in the mid-30s. Highs only hit the upper 20s next week.

The Importance of Fire Extinguisher Inspections

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

While at work, school, or at home, you may not even notice the fire extinguishers that are placed throughout the building. Many people probably don’t think twice about fire extinguishers until there comes a time when they need to use one. Imagine how unfortunate it would be if a small fire breaks out in your home or at work, so you grab the fire extinguisher and attempt to use it, only to find out that it is broken. Having your fire extinguishers inspected regularly can help you avoid this scenario.

Inspections Keep your Extinguishers Working

Performing quick inspections of your extinguishers on a monthly and yearly basis can go a long way in keeping your extinguishers working. It may seem like a waste of your time, but fire extinguishers can help you prevent a small fire from growing into a large fire that causes a lot of expensive damage to your property. Over time, fire extinguishers can become damaged without you realizing it. Regular inspections are necessary to be sure that your extinguisher will work when a fire breaks out.

Inspections for Code Compliance

NFPA standards require that your fire extinguishers be inspected on a regular basis. To remain code compliant, you should hire a fire protection professional to perform brief visual inspections on a monthly basis and a more in-depth inspection on a yearly basis.

Monthly Extinguisher Inspections

A monthly inspection of your extinguisher is a visual inspection that makes sure your extinguisher is charged and ready to use. During a monthly inspection make sure that:

• The fire extinguisher is in the right place, well-marked, and easily accessible
• The pressure gauge is showing the fire extinguisher is fully charged
• The pin and tamper seal is intact
• The fire extinguisher is not visibly damaged or corroded
• Make sure nameplate and operating instructions are facing outward
• Check the service tag on the extinguisher and sign and date to record the inspection

Yearly Fire Extinguisher Inspections

Yearly fire extinguisher inspections are more in-depth inspections. On a yearly basis, fire extinguishers components must be checked to make sure they are working correctly. Yearly inspections include:

• Check the extinguisher for damage to the exterior
• Check the service date for six-year maintenance and hydro test.
• Making sure the agent is loose and not settle.
• Look at the pressure gauge to make sure it is charged and not leaking
• Make sure the pull pin on the extinguisher works
• Reseal the pull pin
• Clean the fire extinguisher

Plan for a disaster NOW to avoid delays in running your business

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.  We have plenty of success stories when it comes to business interruption including getting a restaurant back open in 5 days after a kitchen fire.  If outside interruptions don't slow us down (insurance claims, public adjusting) we can work as fast as our clients need.

Here Is How To Cook The Best Turkey

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Here are a few tips according to foodnetwork.com on how to cook the perfect turkey Thursday. 

1. Choose the type of turkey best for you. Make sure to choose a healthy looking bird with the right weight. 

2. Expect 1-1.5 lbs. per guest. This helps account for the weight of the bones as well. 

3. Use vegetables as the cooking wrack. This helps create better air circulation so that the turkey is cooked more evenly. 

4. Brining your turkey will help it stay moist. 

5. Keep stuffing on the outside. Cook stuffing in a different pan because stuffing inside the turkey can be perfect for creating bacteria inside the turkey. 

6. Try to tie your turkey up. Tie the wings underneath the breast and tie the legs to each other and tighten slightly. This helps the meat cook more evenly. 

7. Rub the turkey with butter or oil. You can even put some under the skin to keep the meat more moist. 

8. Skip the basting. This causes an unnecessary amount of temperature changes and can dry out the meat. 

9. Invest in a good instant temp thermometer. When it reaches 165 degree level you know it is finished. 

10. Give it a rest. Let the turkey sit for 15-20 mins after it is out of the oven to carve. This helps lock in the juices. 

Minimizing Downtime and Damage

3/21/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can be a significant problem for a business owner. Unfortunately, many business owners don't know how to handle this type of property damage. However, learning more about the issue can empower you to take the steps necessary to get your commercial property back in pristine condition.

Water Damage Basics

Some of the possible causes of water damage:

Poor Ventilation

Leaking Pipes

Excessive Condensation

High Humidity

Damp Utility Closets

Roof Leaks

Damp Carpets

Flooding

Fire Sprinklers

Once a water damage has transpired on your property, you'll need to determine the following three things:
Where the water came from?
What is the extent of the damage?
How long has the devastation been in place?

Now it's time to get the right team.

When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO® of Overbrook/Wynnefield professionals respond immediately and use advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly. They closely monitor and document the drying process to verify your property is dried properly and thoroughly.

Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO® professionals have the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.” With over 1,700 Franchises nationwide, there’s a SERVPRO® expert nearby and ready to serve you.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources
As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO® of Overbrook/Wynnefield is strategically located to respond quickly to your water emergency event. We have been serving the Bradenton community for over 25 years! Call us SERVPRO® of Overbrook/Wynnefield at 215-877-6653.

Storm Damage Unnoticed For Several Months

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Rain can be unpredictable enough, but when storm damage is involved it can make matters even more complicated. In fact, a local office building experienced just that. Through the holiday season, they were closed for business and did not discover the damage from the rain until the office manager returned two days later.

When she and the rest of the staff saw that every inch of the carpet was soaked and files in cardboard boxes have been saturated, they began to panic. When we arrived on the scene, we let them know everything was going to be okay. Our production team began to extract water immediately from the wet carpet while the production manager measured what areas were wet and which were dry in the corners. After thoroughly checking for moisture, extracting all water and drying for a few days, we were able to save the carpet, saving the office and property manager hundreds of dollars.

If you have water damage due to a recent storm, let our office help! Give us a call at 215-877-6653 to schedule an inspection today. Our team is standing by and would be happy to help. 

We Are Cleaning Experts

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of King of Prussia at 610-337-3330

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

IICRC And Fire Damage

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

The IICRC explains why Fire Restoration is important after experiencing a fire in your home or business. When a home or business owner prolong the restoration of their home or business after a fire, they extend the effects brought on by the smoke and soot exposure. Professional restoration technicians know that damage increases and restoration costs escalate the longer neutralization, corrosion control and cleaning are delayed. The following is a timeline provided by the IICRC of the effects of fire and smoke on a home.

Within Minutes: Acid soot residues cause plastics to yellow and can cause small appliances located close to the source to discolor in addition highly porous materials like marble may discolor permanently.

Within Hours: Acid residues stain grout in bathrooms while fiberglass bath fixtures may yellow and uncoated metals tarnish, counter tops may yellow and finishes on appliances, particularly refrigerators, may yellow in addition furniture finishes may discolor.

Within Days: acid residues may cause painted walls to yellow permanently and metal can corrode, pit and rust; wood furniture may require refinishing while vinyl flooring may require replacement; clothing can become soot stained and upholstery stains may be stained permanently.

Within Weeks: Restoration costs escalate quickly. Synthetic carpet fibers may yellow or discolor permanently while silver plate can be corroded permanently in addition glass, crystal and china may require replacement due to severe etching caused by prolonged exposure to acid soot residues.

Cleaning up soot residue must be done as quickly as possible. The IICRC explains that during combustion, soot residue and volatile vapors are carried by rising and expanding air to surfaces throughout a structure, and are then deposited onto structural surfaces in the home or business. This process occurs repeatedly until combustion ends, during which soot residue continues building up on surfaces layer by layer. This can make the soot very difficult to remove once restoration technicians arrive on site.

Are You Ready?

3/12/2020 (Permalink)

When a fire or water damage emergency happens will you be READY?  None of us like to consider that we will become victims of a water or fire damage disaster.  Unfortunately, it could and inevitably will happen to each of us either at our home or at our place of business.  It’s extremely important to know what to do in the event of an emergency.  As leaders in the Fire and Water Damage Restoration Industry, SERVPRO is here to help you prepare for an emergency before it happens by offering to assist you with creating an ERP.

What is an ERP?

An ERP stands for an Emergency Ready Program.  It is a no-cost readiness plan designed to help home and business owners recover from a disaster faster, which leads to lower recovery costs.  Make sure you’re ready and not ruined with our Emergency Ready Program. 

Contact our office today for more details on how to get started creating your own ERP.  

Tortoise Sets House on Fire

2/15/2020 (Permalink)

Despite its dour demeanor, an “angry-looking" tortoise in England actually had a “very lucky Christmas Day,” after firefighters rescued the reptile from a house it had set on fire, officials said.

The unnamed 45-year-old reptile was alone in its Essex home when it knocked a heat lamp onto its bedding, which caught on fire, Essex Fire and Rescue said Wednesday in a news release.

Neighbors heard the smoke alarm and called an emergency number around 5 p.m., officials said. Firefighters scrambled to the scene and found smoke filling the home and a fire in one of the rooms.

Firefighters extinguished the fire and cleared the house of smoke within 25 minutes, the BBC reported.

"This incident shows just how important it is to have smoke alarms on every level of your home - even if you're not home they will alert anyone close by to the first sign of fire,” said Watch Manager Gary Wain of the Great Dunmow Fire Station.

Emergency Ready Profiles For Businesses

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

If you run or own a business, getting an ERP from SERVPRO of Eastern Main Line/Bala Cynwyd would be a highly intelligent choice to make. An ERP is an emergency response plan and lets our franchise know what you want us to do when you suffer a fire or water loss. This could be crucial in saving your property from more damage. Information included in this emergency plan is contact names like plumbers and emergency contacts, where we should park, plan of action, etc. The best part about our ERP's is the fact that they are a free service we provide for all of our customers! Please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Eastern Main Line/Bala Cynwyd at 610-667-9080 today to get your ERP!

Large Commercial Water Losses

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

In the event of a rain storm, flooding could occur anywhere at any time. We never really know exactly when the next weather event could happen. This means it is important to prepare for this before it happens. ERP's (emergency ready plan) are one way businesses can prepare for water or fire losses. Regardless, if a water loss occurs at your business give SERVPRO of King of Prussia a call at 610-667-9080 to receive fast and professional work. We understand the importance of getting businesses back up and running ASAP because that is money and time that can not be made up. You never know if you are going to experience an emergency loss, so ask yourself, is it better to be ready or not?

TV Sets Fire

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

WESTPORT - A TV at a commercial property on Bluff Point started a fire that extended inside the wall of the building.

The call came in around 7:30 p.m. Monday.

The initial dispatch was for Engine 4, Engine 2, Truck 1 and the Shift Commander.

Assistant Chief Brian Meadow said in a release when Engine 4 arrived, firefighters were met by a property representative who stated seeing flames through a window on the second floor and using a fire extinguisher.

“Crews made entry and found evidence that the TV fire had extended to the wall of the structure. Members from E4 and E2 worked together to stretch a 300-foot attack line while the Truck Company opened the wall to check for extension and shut off power to the building.”

Engine 5 and Engine 6 were added to the assignment as well as mutual aid from Fairfield and Norwalk.

  “The fire was confined to the wall in the area of the TV with no other extension,” Meadows said.

The Westport Fire Marshal’s office was on scene to investigate the cause of the fire.

Additionally Westport EMS and Eversource responded to the scene.

The scene was turned over to the property manager. The last Fire Department unit cleared at 9:01 p.m.

Smoke Behavior Is No Joke

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

Fire losses and the damage they leave behind can be an incredibly complex job to deal with. This is caused largely by the behavior of smoke. When our SERVPRO of Eastern Main Line/Bala Cynwyd professionals respond to a call for a fire job, their initial goal is to determine the extent of damage from fire itself, smoke, heat, and moisture. Not only do we deal with damage to building structures, but we work to clean a building's contents and your belongings as well.

Our SERVPRO trained professionals are trained to understand how smoke penetrates various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Our teams' knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. We know it can be stressful when you don't understand the issues facing your home, so take a moment to read up on the different kinds of smoke and soot that could potentially effect your property.

While there are technically only two different types of smoke - wet and dry, there are varying types of soot residue after a fire. Here's a handy glossary of smoke and soot types that might come in handy if you're ever faced with the misfortune of dealing with a property fire:

Wet smoke (plastic & rubber): Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. These smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry smoke (paper & wood): Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises and thus so does the smoke

Protein fire residue (caused by evaporation of material instead of fire): Virtually invisible discolors paints and varnishes, extremely pungent odor

Fuel oil soot (furnace puff backs): While "puff backs" can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO can, in most cases, restore your contents and your Baltimore structure quickly (thanks to their training)

Additionally, we do deal with tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher resides. These special situations require special care and evaluation.

Understanding and having the ability to differentiate between these different types of smoke and soot is part of SERVPRO's specific training which makes us a cut above any other Baltimore local restoration team. Trusting a company to care about your home like you do can seem daunting and feel impossible, but when it comes to SERVPRO, trust that you're always in good hands. We make it, "Like it never even happened."

Snow Blower Safety Tips

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

During this time of season snow blowers are popular, but it's safety is a big deal if you are not careful. 

If you are using a snow blower, you should watch out for items on your property that can jam up the snow blower. Some common items are doormats and pet toys. 

When you are running a snow blower be sure you are not wearing any loose clothing. It's important to always wear tight clothing to prevent any accidents.

Most importantly never put your hand in the front end of the snow blower to remove items. That rule still applies when the machine is not moving, because there is tension on the belt. You can remove items by using a stick or a broom.

Owner of Kirkwood Ace Hardware, Jeff Hinz, says it's better to be safe than sorry.

"We see a lot of people with snow blower injuries and it's generally fingers and digits from the front. If you check any type of medical site you will see that snow blowers are a major cause of injury during the winter. Always stay behind the machine, wear shoes with a good grip so you don't slip and fall," Hinz said.

These are just a few tips to make your experience with a snow blower a good one. 

Tips provided by myndnow.com

Do's And Do Not's of Storm Emergencies

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

Heavy thunderstorms are known to cause flooding both inside and outside of the house. Here are a few tips of what to do if your house has flooded during this storm season.

What To Do After Flooding

• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Turn on the air conditioning for maximum drying during the summer months.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place and remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Gather loose items from the floor.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don’t leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don’t use your household vacuum to remove the water.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet and avoid being in rooms where the ceilings are sagging.
• Do not use the your television or other household appliances.

Content by: SERVPRO Corporate

SERVPRO of King of Prussia is an IICRC Certified Firm

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of King of Prussia is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of King of Prussia

SERVPRO of King of Prussia specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Tips To Reduce Water Damages

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

A water damage can be devastatingly stressful to a homeowner. You can feel helpless and overwhelmed. Although calling a professional is the first step we always recommend, there are some things you can do to help reduce the damage while you wait for professionals to arrive.

DO:

• Shut off the water source if possible
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the home or building
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping or blotting with towels
• Remove lamps and other tabletop items and wipe wood furniture with a towel
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying
• Place foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet flooring
• Remove any paintings, electronics or anything else that is sensitive to moisture and put in a dry area of the house

Taking the above steps can really help decrease the amount of damage to your home after a water leak. There are also a few practices that you should avoid after a water damage, because they can cause more damage or harm to yourself or your family.

DON’T:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electric shock hazard may exist, such as when electric outlets, switches or circuit breakers are exposed to water 
• Leave books, newspapers or other colored items on wet carpet or furniture
• Leave wet oriental rugs or other colored rugs on carpeting
• Use household vacuum cleaner to remove water because risk of electric shock
• Use TV’s or other electrical appliances while standing on wet floor
• Turn on ceiling fan in rooms where the ceiling is wet
• Enter a room where ceiling is wet and sagging
• Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily throughout the house
• Use personal fans if the water in the home is contaminated

The most important “do” is to call a professional, trained water mitigation specialist such as SERVPRO of King of Prussia at 610-337-3330

Storm Damage Could Happen at Any Time

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

What is ChaserCon? 

More than 200 storm chasers have been attending this conference every year since 1998. It was held in Oklahoma City one year, and it was in Wichita in 2019, but every other year it's been held in Denver.

"We have it in January to re-energize chasers out who are usually dealing with storm deprivation syndrome by that time," Roger Hill said.

Roger created ChaserCon at his house in Bennett 22 years ago with another local Colorado chaser named Tim Samaras. Hill said he didn't really know Samaras too well until they started doing ChaserCon together. They grew to become close friends.

“Storm chasing is like a brotherhood,” Roger Hill said. 

ChaserCon became their tradition, and something that other storm chasers looked forward to as winter weather winds down and heads toward the spring.

The ChaserCon tradition almost came to an end in 2013 when Samara was killed while launching a research probe into the El Reno tornado in Oklahoma.

“Caryn and I both knew that Tim would want ChaserCon to continue,” Roger Hill said.

So they’ve kept it going for several more years, but this Saturday they will tell the chaser community that they're closing the doors on ChaserCon for good.

“It’s really going to be hard to do it with a dry eye, it really will," Roger Hill said. 

He said that organizing ChaserCon had become a full-time job for him and Caryn, who want to spend more time traveling the country together outside of storm season. 

They also say they had taken a financial loss on the conference a few years. 

The Hills own the trademark on the name ChaserCon and say they don't want anyone to take the reins and continue the tradition, but they said they would be thrilled to see someone start a similar event in the future. 

There are only a limited amount of spots left in this final ChaserCon. You can try to register for one of those positions until midnight Wednesday, or show up at the Doubletree Hotel in Stapleton North at 7 a.m. Saturday to try to get in as a walk-in. 

He says, "When I first moved here, the problem wasn't here, and it's just gotten worse."

Rainfall is supposed to flow through storm pipes, but Watson says it moves directly into his yard and driveway. He says, "It's a mess. I mean, when we have a good rain, we've got to get wet feet to get in our vehicles if we're going somewhere."

Water runs from the street, down his driveway, and pools up around his house. Clumps of debris clog various drains around Watson's home, and a tree stump blocks a storm pipe.

For several years, Watson says he asked for help from Macon-Bibb County Public Works to clear the storm drains. He says he asks, "About every six months. They know me."

Macon-Bibb Spokesperson Chris Floore says Interim Public Works Director Tim Wilder came to look at the storm drains at Watson's property. 

He says Watson put in about five service requests over the years. Floore says it's not uncommon that drains get clogged up over time, but the tree stump is a problem.

Watson feels his home is getting damaged, and possibly on its way to seeing long-term effects.  

"There's a crack starting right here. It hasn't made it all the way, but how much longer is the water going to tear up my house," says Watson.

Floore says Public Works will remove the tree stump.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

SHELBY CO., Ala. (WBRC) - With temperatures dipping below freezing over the next few days, your home systems have to work overtime to deal with the cold.

We talked to a water damage and restoration company and they are already being called out to clean up the aftermath of pipes bursting in Shelby County.

Their call volume doubled Monday and they expect for that to only increase heading into Tuesday and Wednesday as those freezing temperatures stick around.

SERVPRO experts encourage neighbors to turn up their heat to help keep your pipes warm and also leave one faucet dripping.

And there are certain pipes you need to keep a close eye on.

Huck McElveen with SERVPRO said, “Toilet tank lines, dishwasher lines, refrigerator lines, all of those are typically more susceptible to rupturing when the weather gets cold. Especially down into the 20′s like it is this week.”

Also if you normally block off a part of your house to save on utilities, maybe an upstairs floor that is not used anymore, experts suggest you open that up and heat it as well, just to prevent and cracks in the pipes.

Storms Roll Across Texas

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

KILGORE, Texas (KLTV) - Damage is still being assessed from the Friday night storms that rumbled through East Texas, and among those doing that assessment are members of the National Weather Service out of Shreveport.

The priority is to find out what the specific conditions were that caused the damage.

Evaluating every snapped tree and every foot of damage to homes and property is the time-consuming job of NWS investigators.

“Most important is to have good radar data and see where the circulations are. Go along roads and make a note of where we see the damage and then when you see that from a birds-eye view geo-spatially and it lines up, it becomes much more obvious it’s tornado circulation,” says NWS surveyor Brad Bryant.

In the small community of Williams Valley, they track the storm’s path and look at trees, which can be indicators whether it was straight line or tornado rotation.

“Usually if it’s leaning easterly or northeasterly all in one direction , that’s more a sign of straight-line winds. But leaning against each other, against the direction, that’s more an indicator of a tornado. When you get a weak tornado that’s moving quickly it kind of can look like straight line winds,” Bryant says.

But the effort by homeowners to clean up afterward can create a small problem.

Protect your house from smoke

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

Fall is here! With the change in seasons, people will be active both outside and indoors. According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Agency), cooking inside is the #1 cause of house fires. Consider the following tips to ensure your family is safe!

• Test Smoke Detector batteries every month
• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement, both inside and outside of sleeping areas.
• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• Position barbecue grills at least 10 feet away from siding and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Never use a stove range or oven to heat your home.

Smoke Damage Cleanup

Smoke damage can leave a lasting impact on your house and make rooms unbearable to breathe in.

Before you begin cooking inside, it is important to understand the risks of smoke damage.

SERVPRO can help you eliminate smoke and fire damage professionally.

Farmers Insuring Uber Drivers in 12 More States

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

Farmers Insurance has expanded its relationship with Uber by providing commercial automobile insurance to its ridesharing drivers in 12 additional states and the District of Columbia.

In addition to the District of Columbia, Farmers will insure Uber drivers in Delaware, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Virginia, and West Virginia. These states are in addition to Pennsylvania and Georgia where Farmers already offers the coverage.

Farmers is the second insurer within weeks to announce or expand an Uber program, helping to fill a gap in Uber’s insurance that was exposed in the Oct. 8 announcement by James River Group that it was dropping Uber, its largest client, and cancelling all Uber policies as of Dec. 31.

Liberty Mutual Insurance last week said it started providing coverage for Uber drivers and passengers on Dec. 31, 2019. The Liberty Mutual program is available to drivers in Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine.

“Having been in the commercial automobile insurance business for more than 80 years, we are proud to have leveraged our talent and insights to develop an innovative commercial auto insurance solution that helps Uber and drivers using the Uber App,” said Sharon Fernandez, president of business insurance for Farmers Insurance.

Generally, states require drivers for transportation network companies like Uber to have insurance policies covering bodily injury liability, property damage and first party medical benefits.

Under the policies offered by Farmers and Liberty Mutual, coverage begins when drivers turn on their Uber App and coverage applies through ride acceptance, rider pick-up, and trip completion.

Farmers was one of the first insurers to offer an endorsement that extended some personal automobile insurance coverages to rideshare drivers while they were logged into their TNC’s smart phone application and waiting to be matched with a rider. The Farmers rideshare endorsement is now offered to drivers in 29 states.

After St. James announced its exit, Uber told the Wall Street Journal it expected other insurers to replace James River as part of its insurance program. In addition to Farmers and Liberty Mutual, other insurers including Allstate and Progressive also provide coverage for Uber drivers. Uber also has a captive insurance subsidiary to cover certain risks.

Winter Storm to Hit Much of the U.S.

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

At a Glance

• A winter storm will bring snow and strong winds to the West on Monday.
• Snow and ice will blanket parts of the Plains, Midwest and Northeast through late this week, but details are still uncertain.
• Travel could be impacted in many areas because of snow, ice and rain.
• This storm might not exit the U.S. East Coast until Friday night.

A winter storm will slow down travel across the country this week as it brings snow, ice and rain to parts of the West, Plains, Midwest and Northeast.

This system has been named Winter Storm Kade by The Weather Channel.

Here's a look at where the storm is now and what to expect the next several days. Keep in mind, this forecast will likely change in the coming days, so check back to weather.com for updates.

Happening Now

Snow is currently moving from parts of the Rockies to western South Dakota. Travel conditions will be difficult in many areas, including Salt Lake City.

Salt Lake City International Airport had picked up 5 inches of snow from this storm as of 5 a.m. local time on Monday morning.

There have been several interstate closures because of the snowfall in the Northern Rockies. Go to the link below for more details.

Winter storm warnings and winter weather advisories have been issued by the National Weather Service for parts of the northern and central Rockies and Central Plains.

Cities under a winter storm warning include Salt Lake City and Cheyenne, Wyoming. The city of Denver is currently under a winter weather advisory, but the western suburbs, including Boulder, Colorado, are under a winter storm warning.

The winter storm warning areas are expected to have the heaviest snowfall and greatest travel impacts from this storm system, while lighter snow amounts still capable of causing some travel impacts are expected in the winter weather advisory areas.

Winter storm watches have also now been issued in the Southern Plains from northwest Texas into central Oklahoma for later Tuesday into Wednesday. The watches include Oklahoma City and Lubbock, Texas.

From theweatherchannel.com

Severe Weather Causes Huge Amount of Damage in Canada

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

TORONTO , Jan. 21, 2020 /CNW/ - Severe weather across Canada continues to highlight the financial costs of climate change to insurers and taxpayers. In 2019, floods, rain, snow and windstorms damaged homes, vehicles and commercial properties. Insured damage for these severe weather events reached $1.3 billion last year, according to Catastrophe Indices and Quantification Inc.

Notably, 2019 ranked the seventh highest in insured losses on record. Like 2018, no single event in 2019 caused the high amount paid out for losses. Instead, Canadians and their insurers experienced significant losses from a host of smaller severe weather events from coast to coast.

As the financial cost of severe weather rises, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is advocating for all orders of government to increase their investments in mitigating the impact of extreme weather and in building resilience against the damaging effects of extreme weather events. IBC promotes investing in upgraded infrastructure to protect communities from floods and fires, improving building codes and land-use planning, and offering incentives to shift the development of homes and businesses away from areas at highest risk of flooding.

It is not only insurers who foot the bill for severe weather damage, it's also taxpayers. Consequently, IBC is advocating for all stakeholders to work together to reduce the financial strain that flood events cause. For every dollar paid out in insurance claims for damaged homes and businesses, Canadian governments and taxpayers pay out much more to repair public infrastructure that the severe weather has damaged.

Quote

"The cost of climate change to Canadians, their businesses and governments continues to rise," said Craig Stewart . IBC encourages all orders of government to work together to reduce our collective climate risk, beginning with a national action plan to address flooding," said Craig Stewart , Vice-President, Federal Affairs, IBC.

About Insurance Bureau of Canada

Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up 90% of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada . For more than 50 years, IBC has worked with governments across the country to help make affordable home, auto and business insurance available for all Canadians. IBC supports the vision of consumers and governments trusting, valuing and supporting the private P&C insurance industry. It champions key issues and helps educate consumers on how best to protect their homes, cars, businesses and properties.

P&C insurance touches the lives of nearly every Canadian and plays a critical role in keeping businesses safe and the Canadian economy strong. It employs more than 128,000 Canadians, pays over $9 billion in taxes and has a total premium base of $59 .6 billion.

Vacant Buildings Could Be More Than Just An Eyesore

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

MIDDLETOWN — 

Last week’s “catastrophic” fire at a large Middletown building further illustrated the need for code enforcement concerning vacant buildings that become community eyesores, officials said.

 The large fire was reported at 6:40 a.m. on Wednesday at the former Middletown Paperboard complex at 300 S. Verity Parkway. More than 100 firefighters at a time battled the blaze, which led to the arrest of a man, Joshua Lamb, who said he was living in the building when a fire he started spread to his bedding.

As of Friday afternoon, Middletown firefighters remained on the scene putting out hotspots as crews from Vickers Demolition used heavy equipment to knock down walls and move debris.

Shelby Quinlivan, city spokeswoman said South Verity Parkway/Ohio 4 between Girard Avenue and Yankee Road was closed to through traffic because of the damaged buildings and debris as well as two smoke stacks at the south end of the facility that will need to come down to protect public safety.

Middletown firefighters have remained on the scene watching for floating embers going on to nearby residential and commercial properties since New Year’s Day. The smouldering embers were buried in pockets inside the double roof, burning into the old wooden beams. As demolition crews worked, moving the debris and removing the scrap metal left in the building, walls were being knocked down revealing more hotspots.

Previous media accounts and “The Pointe,” MidPointe Library’s official blog, said the Middletown Paperboard facility, which consists of 61 parcels, had between 400,000 and 600,000 square feet of space on the 11-acre site.

The original paper mill dated back to 1827 when it started on Vanderveer Street to make boxboard from recycled paper, according to “Middletown - The Steel City” by Middletown Historians Roger L. Miller and the late George C. Crout. In 1873, “C.H. Wardlow and J.K. Thomas built a new paper mill on the site, producing manila and bag paper,” they wrote.

Crout and Miller wrote the site also served as headquarters for Corson Packaging, which “started as the Interstate Folding Box Company at 300 South Verity Parkway in the early 1900s … In 1981 it was acquired by American Packaging, and in 1993, by Corson Packaging. (The company) was known for its folding paperboard cartons. Corson closed the plant during the summer of 2000.”

The facility was later acquired by the Newark Group, which continued operations until 2004. In 2012, Newark Group, which reportedly removed all of the equipment at the Middletown facility and the Franklin Boxboard facility, sold the properties to B.P. Logan LLC in 2012. Last summer, the former Franklin Boxboard facility along with Mindlin Recycling were demolished by its property owner, Cohen USAs who acquired it from BP Logan LLC in 2017.

Middletown Paperboard started as “a series of substantially constructed brick mills, warehouses, etc., the mechanical equipment embracing all the latest improved machinery and appliances known to the trade, and power being obtained from a water privilege and an auxiliary steam engine…”, wrote Harry Simms in “Middletown In Black and White.”

Over the years, it has been the target of vandalism, and its cavernous space allowed the homeless to shelter themselves from the elements. Public safety employees have checked on the building periodically, but there have been a few fires in past years as the property owner did not secure the building as requested by the city.

Then-city manager Doug Adkins testified this year before the Ohio House of Representatives and said that over the previous five years, Middletown had spent $100,000 on the abandoned property. He said a February 2018 fire resulted in $150,000 in property damage and cost the city about $17,000 to fight the fire that was ruled as an arson. He said the estimated amount to clear the site was about $1.9 million.

In addition, the city spent thousands of dollars boarding up windows, securing doors and putting up fencing to deter squatters and the homeless from entering the building.

The Middletown Paperboard property has been the subject of a tax forfeiture case against owner B.P. Logan LLC for not paying $259,565 in back taxes. It was ordered to go to sheriff’s sale but was not purchased. Last month, the property was ordered to be forfeited to the state of Ohio by Butler County Common Pleas Court Judge Greg Howard, according to court documents.

Acting City Manager Susan Cohen said the city plans to work with the Butler County Land Bank to acquire the property for redevelopment as part of the Oakland Historic District project, a plan to rehabilitate the Oakland neighborhood into an urban renaissance incentive district.

Last month, a Butler County Common Pleas Court judge ordered that the property be forfeited to the state of Ohio. She said the city has never had an ownership interest in the property.

Jennifer Ekey, Middletown economic development director, previously said the Paperboard site will be listed in the city’s new master plan as a special interest area due to its proximity to the Oakland Neighborhood and future development project.

Middletown City Council has been working to beef up ordinances to hold property owners accountable for the condition of their residential, commercial and industrial structures over the past few years as well as developing and implementing an updated planning, zoning and development code; a new master plan; a chronic nuisance ordinance; and a civil penalties ordinance to encourage property owners to maintain their properties to a minimum standard.

Last year, council also updated a vacant building registry ordinance requiring property owners to furnish ownership, insurance and other information to city officials. However, that ordinance only applies to the urban core downtown district and is for 10 years. The Paperboard site is just outside that zoning district. Shelby Quinlivan, city spokeswoman, said only 12 downtown area properties are on the property registry.

Cohen said it would be up to council do determine if that ordinance should be expanded to other parts of the city.

Super Bowl Could Get Rained On

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

With festivities kicking off for Sunday's Super Bowl, severe storms may dampen plans Friday into Saturday morning.

2020 is the Last Year For Chaser Con

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

DENVER — Thunderstorms are huge. Sometimes they can be seen from more than 100 miles away, but most storm chasers are interested in seeing what happens near the updraft base. 

That is the part of the storm that has incredible structure to the clouds, and it is also where funnels and tornadoes are most likely to happen. To see that part of the storm, you have to get close. 

And that's the basis for storm chasing. 

A storm chaser is a person who recognizes and admires the beauty in severe weather, which some consider to be dark and ominous. They love it so much, they will seek these storms out as much as they can.

“I think it’s just a natural curiosity," veteran storm chaser Roger Hill said. 

He and his wife -- who is also a storm chaser -- organize a convention in Denver every year called ChaserCon. It started in 1998 because of their passion for storms, and now in its final year, the couple wants storm chasers to get back to their roots. 

What is ChaserCon? 

More than 200 storm chasers have been attending this conference every year since 1998. It was held in Oklahoma City one year, and it was in Wichita in 2019, but every other year it's been held in Denver.

"We have it in January to re-energize chasers out who are usually dealing with storm deprivation syndrome by that time," Roger Hill said.

Roger created ChaserCon at his house in Bennett 22 years ago with another local Colorado chaser named Tim Samaras. Hill said he didn't really know Samaras too well until they started doing ChaserCon together. They grew to become close friends.

“Storm chasing is like a brotherhood,” Roger Hill said. 

ChaserCon became their tradition, and something that other storm chasers looked forward to as winter weather winds down and heads toward the spring.

The ChaserCon tradition almost came to an end in 2013 when Samara was killed while launching a research probe into the El Reno tornado in Oklahoma.

“Caryn and I both knew that Tim would want ChaserCon to continue,” Roger Hill said.

So they’ve kept it going for several more years, but this Saturday they will tell the chaser community that they're closing the doors on ChaserCon for good.

“It’s really going to be hard to do it with a dry eye, it really will," Roger Hill said. 

He said that organizing ChaserCon had become a full-time job for him and Caryn, who want to spend more time traveling the country together outside of storm season. 

They also say they had taken a financial loss on the conference a few years. 

The Hills own the trademark on the name ChaserCon and say they don't want anyone to take the reins and continue the tradition, but they said they would be thrilled to see someone start a similar event in the future. 

There are only a limited amount of spots left in this final ChaserCon. You can try to register for one of those positions until midnight Wednesday, or show up at the Doubletree Hotel in Stapleton North at 7 a.m. Saturday to try to get in as a walk-in. 

From: Channel 9 NBC

CE classes

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of King of Prussia is looking to schedule a free Continuing Education class in the upcoming months. For example, below is a sample of some of the classes that could be taught. There are plenty of other classes that credits could be handed out for but here is a few.

Understanding The Restoration Industry: Property Fire

(4 Credit Hours)

This course has been designed to teach and explain the special procedures used by professionals in mitigating and restoring fire damage claims for the insured. The purpose of the course is to provide attendees with a better understanding of the work performed by the mitigation vendor at fire damage work sites.

Concepts of Legal Liability

(3 Credit Hours)

This concept is the basis of most liability insurance.  This program will present the basics of legal liability by building a foundation of various legal theories.  The theory and elements of negligence are presented.  Various types of law are discussed. Included is a discussion on damages resultant from legal liability. 

Carbon Monoxide Tips

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

Now that temperatures are very low, you may feel they need to fire up your furnace to keep warm.

Using a fossil fuel furnace like oil or gas to heat your home is one of the most popular and energy-efficient methods today. Because furnaces use combustion to produce heat, you need to be aware of the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning.

On average, carbon monoxide poisoning kills 400 Americans every year and sends 20,000 to the hospital. Leaking boilers and furnaces are one of the most common causes of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless and an extremely deadly byproduct of burning fuel to heat your home. Minor leaks in your boiler or furnace can expose you and your family to a deadly amount of carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is directly related to running your heating system. So, when the temperature drops, it means it is time for you to be informed and take the proper precautions to keep safe from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Sources of Carbon Monoxide:

• Gas furnaces
• Oil furnaces
• Gas boilers
• Oil boilers
• Wood fireplaces
• Wood pellet stoves

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Chest pain
• Confusion
• Unconsciousness
• Shortness of breath

System defects that release Carbon Monoxide:

• Incomplete combustion process
• Leaking seams
• Cracks in the combustion chamber
• Cracks in the exhaust piping

Ways to prevent Carbon Monoxide poisoning:

• It is highly recommended to place carbon monoxide detectors around your house. Since carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, detectors are the only way to identify the gas. Place one near your heating system and on every floor of your house. If the detector where to go off, evacuate your house and seek fresh air immediately. Once you seek fresh air, call 911.
• Have your furnace and fireplace cleaned and checked before each winter.
• Do not start or leave vehicles running in your garage.
• Do not use portable heaters while sleeping in enclosed areas.

Why Choose SERVPRO of King of Prussia?

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a franchise system with 45 years of leadership in cleanup and restoration. Our track record of results has earned us the trust of the insurance industry, countless homeowners, and in one unforgettable instance, even the Pentagon.

We are quietly taking to the streets, every hour of every day, proving that whenever there is a house full of water or an office full of smoke, there is also a van full of clean and workers that are going to make it look like it never even happened.

So what services does SERVPRO of Saginaw offer? We offer the following;

Restoration:

• Fire, Smoke and Soot
• Water removal and Dehumidification
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation
• Catastrophic Storm Response
• Move Outs and Contents Restoration
• Electronics and Equipment
• Document Drying
• Contents Claim Inventory Service

Cleaning:

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Biohazard, Crime Scene and Vandalism
• Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls and Hard Floors
• Deodorization

We also offer Reconstruction services. Give us a call today to get an estimate or learn more about what we do!

Call SERVPRO For Immediate Water Damage Cleanup

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

King of Prussia water damage is sometimes hard to detect, so it is important to learn the signs of this type of damage before the problem gets worse. The sooner water damage is spotted, the lower the cost to remedy he issue. SERVPRO recommends that property owners be aware of the common signs of moisture damage such as cold temperatures, peculiar smells, peeling and soft patches, puddles and water drips and surface discoloration.

Cold Temperatures
Buildings that have a build up of moisture on the walls are more difficult to heat when the air hits dew point temperature. The problem is compounded by the cold walls, which attract additional condensation. These two issues cause a harmful cycle of water damage. A moisture problem may be to blame if the house is habitually cold or the heating bill has risen without explanation.

Peculiar Smells
Mold and moisture may even be detectable by smell. An odd smell is sometimes a sign of a puddle or leak. Depending on the region, the air has different moisture levels. In humid regions, a dehumidifier may be a simple fix for an overabundance of moisture in the air.

Peeling and Soft Patches
When moisture penetrates flooring or walls, the moisture can break down either surface's fibers over time. For instance, a dip around the toilet indicates a possible leak. Falling tiles or a crumbling or soft wall can also be a sign of a moisture issue.

Puddles and Water Drips
Puddles and water drips are two clear indications of moisture damage. Often, growing puddles are a sign of seeping, a lack of ventilation or a leak on the property.

Surface Discoloration
Faded furniture and walls are sometimes attributed to exposure to prolonged periods of direct sunlight. However, water is known to drain dye from furniture and carpets and make paint color fade. If dark green patches of fur are present, there may also be a mold problem. Water marks may even appear on windows or walls where water has run down the surface due to leaking eaves-troughs. Overflowing eaves-troughs eventually cause additional problems like leaking basements and water damaged foundations.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

We live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Saginaw is close by and ready to respond to your flood or water damage emergency. We are proud to be an active member of the Saginaw community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be.

We are proud to serve our local communities.

Summer Safety & Cleanup!

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Safety First 

Summer is a time to enjoy the great outdoors, but it is also important to keep safety in mind.  Consider the following tips, provided by the National Fire Protection Association to keep you and your family safe as we wrap Summer and head into Fall (tailgates and bonfires are not far away!)

• When using a charcoal grill, only use starter fluids designed for barbecue grills; do not add fluid after coals have been lit.
• When using a gas grill, ensure the hose connection is tight; check hoses for leaks. Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks.
• Always build a campfire downwind from the tent area. Clear vegetation and dig a pit before building your fire. Extinguish the fire before going to sleep or leaving the campsite.
• Store liquid fire starter (not gasoline) away from your tent and campfire and only use dry kindling to freshen a campfire.

Summer Cleanup 

As we transition seasons, many of the ugly remnants of summer seem to stick around forever. This may be a great time to get rid of the muddy footprints, dirty stairs, and all the sticky spills of summer.  

Contact SERVPRO of                                        King of Prussia (610-337-3330)

SERVPRO Saves Home Sale Within Hours!

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

Recently, a local inspector was completing an inspection for a house that was under contract with settlement within the week.  He discovered several areas affected by mold in the attic.  This had the potential to delay the pending home sale by weeks if not months.

The homeowners placed a panicked call to SERVPRO of King of Prussia to assess the property.  Within hours, our trained technicians arrived on the scene, found the mold, and provided expeditious cleaning and remediation.   

The home inspector who originally identified the mold was pleased with the result, the cost of our service, and the professionalism of our team. Most importantly, the home sale was completed, as scheduled, that same week!

Every mold infestation is different, from the extent and type of growth to the variety of materials affected. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same.

For every mold project, SERVPRO of King of Prussia will go through our standard remediation process:

• Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
• Mold Containment
• Air Filtration
• Remove Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
• Cleaning Contents and Belongings
• Restoration

If you have mold fire or water damage, call SERVPRO at 610-337-3330

3 Ways in Which Mold Grows Quickly Out of Hand

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Moisture is Dangerous!

In light of this year’s hurricane season, it is highly important to keep an eye out for flooding or moisture in and around your house. Often, water damage to your property can lead to serious mold growth.

Mold reproduces via spores, which can be naked to the visible eye. Since spores are able to travel through the air, it becomes difficult to completely remove all mold growth that has occurred.

Here are the following ways that mold can grow quickly out of hand:

• Mold can grow on any surface - wood, paper, carpet, and foods. With moisture, mold grows quickly and begins decaying materials.
• Houses with low ventilation can trap humidity. During the warmer months of the year, humidity in airtight houses can lead to more mold growth. On the other hand, houses with cold air drafts can lead to condensation. In the cooler months of the year, condensation can foster mold growth in unwanted areas.
• Mold growth can result in the reproduction of other bacteria and organisms. A variety of bacteria and mold can cause sickness to those on the property.

Assessment & Cleanup

If you have an attic or basement, check for moisture regularly. Water leaks that are left unchecked for more than 48 hours can easily result in mold growth.

If you have mold or water damage, call SERVPRO at 610-337-3330

Winterizing Your Home to Prevent Burst Pipes

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

Montgomery County is still facing months of cold weather, which means months of potential dangers to your home. Winter’s heavy precipitation, freezing temperatures, and high winds can cause a great deal of damage, but the most costly and time-consuming winter home damage often comes from burst pipes. Luckily, taking a few small steps to ‘winterize’ your property can prevent future problems. Until spring, follow these simple tips:

1. Keep cabinet doors open during the coldest days of the month to circulate warm air around the pipes. Of course, be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals to a secure spot out of the reach of children.
   
   
2. Leave the water on at a very slow trickle through faucets, especially from pipes lacking heat or insulation. The slow flow can often prevent water from freezing in place in the pipe.
   
   
3. If you have outdoor faucets, consider turning them off. Shutting off the valve in the basement, or crawl space will prevent water from freezing in outdoor exposed pipes. Make sure to completely drain outdoor faucets, as well.  
   
   
4. If you leave for vacation, set the temperature in your home no lower than 55° F. Leaving the heat on ensures that all pipes will remain warm during your time away.
   
   
5. If there are water lines in the garage, keep the garage door shut! Open garage doors allow drafts to potentially freeze exposed pipes.

In the coldest days of winter, be sure to regularly check your water pipes and faucets. The earlier water damage is discovered, the easier it is to clean and contain—water leaks left unchecked for as little as 48 hours can easily result in mold growth.

If you have mold or water damage, call SERVPRO at 610-546-2484 to schedule a cleanup.  Your SERVPRO of King of Prussia professionals have the training, certifications, and equipment to remediate mold.

Call today for a free estimate, and mention this post and get 10% off all your cleaning needs.

Don't Let Winter Fires Ruin Your Dinner!

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

There were three house fires in Montgomery County overnight Wednesday into Thursday and since Dec. 1, 2017, there have been 21 house fires, including two that were multi-alarm. That is an unusually high number that may be attributable to the exceedingly cold temperatures the region has been experiencing recently.

Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and can easily be prevented.

We urge all of our residents to follow these important steps to prevent winter home fires.

• Never leave food cooking on the stovetop unattended.
• Keep a close eye on what’s cooking, particularly if you are frying food. If you see any smoke or the grease starts to boil, turn the burner off.
• Keep a pan lid or cookie sheet nearby and use it to cover the pan if it catches fire.
• Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove so they aren’t bumped or pulled over accidentally. The steps people sometimes take in an effort to heat their homes, particularly during power outages, can also lead to house fires. The following steps can prevent house fires in those instances.
• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet from heat sources, such as fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators, and space heaters.
• Use flameless candles, flashlights and glow sticks in the event of a power outage.
• Don’t use an oven, stovetop or bring an outdoor grill inside to inside to heat your home. Those pose a serious risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and/or fire.
• Turn space heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed. Don’t use more than one space heater at a time and don’t run extension cords to them.
• If you use a portable generator during a power outage, make sure it is outdoors in a well-ventilated area away from doors, windows and vents, make sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors in your home and never refuel your generator when it is running.

If you have mold or water damage, call SERVPRO at 610-546-2484 to schedule a cleanup.  Your SERVPRO of King of Prussia professionals have the training, certifications, and equipment to remediate mold.

Call today for a free estimate, and mention this post and get 10% off all your cleaning needs.

Leading cause of houses fires! Electrical Heaters!

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

Electrical heating-related fires most often occur in December, January, and February. Purchasing a cozy electrical space heater is a cost-efficient solution when temperatures drop, however, can be a devastating disaster when used improperly. According to the NFPA (National Fire and Protection Agency), electrical space heaters are the leading cause of most house fires. Here are a few tips on how to properly use your electric space heater and avoid fire hazards:

• Electrical Fires: Electrical fires occur when the heating unit is not properly plugged into the wall outlet, most often plugged into an extension cord or power strip. To avoid fires:
  • Give your space heater space; at least 3 feet away from combustible materials
  • Do not plug other electrical devices into the same outlet as the heater.
  • Plug the heater directly into the outlet
  • Avoid leaving the unit running overnight
• Fire Starters: Electrical units placed too close to other combustible materials contribute to 79% of fatal home heating fires. Combustible materials include:
  • Household furniture
  • Clothes
  • Bed Mattress
  • Bedding materials

Before running your electrical heater, it’s important to understand the risks of fire and smoke damage. Fire damage can leave a lasting impact on your house and may cause additional smoke damage.

If you have mold or water damage, call SERVPRO at 610-546-2484 to schedule a cleanup.  Your SERVPRO of King of Prussia professionals have the training, certifications, and equipment to remediate mold.

Call today for a free estimate, and mention this post and get 10% off all your cleaning needs.

Spring Mold Can Be Sneaky!

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Spring is right around the corner, almost. As the winter snow comes to an end, it’s imperative that you check all corners of your house for mold. Mold can be difficult to spot and has the ability to grow quickly out of hand. If not taken care of immediately, mold spores may spread, causing nasal-related health issues. Here are a few common signs that may indicate you have mold growing in your home.

Musty Odor

Mold has a distinct smell that will often spread throughout the room. A musty odor may be an indication of mold growth in your house. Don’t ignore the smell. Instead, check all corners of the room to ensure you do not have mold.

Water Leaks

Water leaks can drip water in secluded places, making it difficult to fully track the damage of the leak. Water that remains untouched for 24-48 hours can result in mold growth. Be sure to check the location of the water leak and its perimeter in case of mold growth.

Condensation

Condensation can occur on surfaces such as glass or metal and has the potential to trigger mold growth. High humidity can feed mold, allowing it to grow rapidly. Check areas in your house that have high moisture and be sure to keep any condensation clean.

If you have an attic or basement, check for moisture regularly. Mold can grow in hidden places and must be checked before the damage gets out of control. Call your local SERVPRO if you are in need of a Mold Inspection.

If you have mold or water damage, call SERVPRO at 610-546-2484 to schedule a cleanup.  

Your SERVPRO professionals of King of Prussia have the training, certifications, and equipment to remediate mold. Call today for a free estimate. Mention this post and get 10% off all your cleaning needs!

Water Damage my not look as big as it is

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

When you experience water damage your choice is simple.  You can call SERVPRO and pay a little now or you can try to clean it up yourself and risk making a more expensive call later.   While It may not look like much water, the cleanup can be way over your head.  Any water damage in your home is bad, but trying to clean it up yourself can be a disaster.  Especially when the water is from a toilet overflow, sewer backup or other dark water source that contains potentially harmful bacteria that can affect your health and the value of your property.  So before you risk your health or the value of your home by cleaning it up yourself, call us.  We are your local water damage cleanup and restoration experts.  We can be reached at 610-337-3330 or 215-576-8887 or at SERVPRO5038@yahoo.com.

SERVPRO Water Restoration "Like it never even happened."

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

At one of the local neighborhood homes, a family’s young son went downstairs to their finished basement to play only to notice water gushing from their ceiling. When his parents came down to see what was wrong, they discovered a saturated carpet and steady water drip. The source of the water flow was the kitchen sink, which was leaking water down through the floor into the basement each time the faucet was turned on.

The dripping, dirty water from the kitchen drain drenched and damaged the cabinets, sink, and hardwood floors upstairs. In the basement, all of the walls, the ceiling, and carpets had to be removed and replaced.

Once they determined the source of the water damage, the homeowners knew the experts at SERVPRO of King of Prussia were the ones to help! SERVPRO professionals visited their home the same day we received the call, promptly uncovered a cracked pipe as the culprit, and cleaned up the damage. We also eased the headache of dealing with the insurance company by helping to ensure all of the paperwork was properly completed.

Water issues vary for each scenario based on the type and extent of damage, but our aligned approach is consistent. For every water damage restoration project, SERVPRO of King of Prussia goes through a standard remediation process:

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Water Damage Assessment
3. Water Removal/Water Extraction
4. Drying and Dehumidification
5. Cleaning and Sanitizing
6. Restoration

If you have mold or water damage, call SERVPRO at 610-546-2484 to schedule a cleanup.  Your SERVPRO professionals of King of Prussia have the training, certifications, and equipment to remediate mold.

Tips for Winterizing your house this winter!

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

COLE WEATHER CAN HAVE A HUGH IMPACT ON BUSINESS AND HOMES THAT AREN'T PREPARED.  Heavy precipitation, freezing temperatures and damaging winds can all have a negative impact on your property.  To help avail costly and time-consuming damages due to the weather, consider the following tips while winterizing your property

* keep cabinet doors open during cold spells.  this allows warm air to circulate around pipes

* Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or un insulated areas of the home or business

*  Consider shutting off outdoor faucets.  Find the shut off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it to Off.

*  If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off

Safety

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

Everyone wants to keep there home warm during the winter months. Here are some safety tips to follow: 

- Never use the oven, range, or stove to heat your home

- Never burn trash, paper or green wood in your fireplace. These items cause heavy green wood in your fireplace. These items cause heavy  creosote build-up, which could eventually start fire in your chimney

- Only buy heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL)

- Purchase electric heaters with a thermostat control mechanism that will switch off should the heater tip over

- Never use electric heaters to dry clothes or other objects

- Keep Space heaters at least three feet away from combustibles

- Plug your electric heater directly into the wall. Do not use an extension cord or a power strip. 

- Always unplug your electric heater when it is not in use

Flooded House

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

A water line caused this home to the floor.  this picture shows the mess left behind.  SERVPRO Of King of Prussia was called in to clean up the mess.  The customer was thrilled, she said "this basement has never been this clean.

How to keep your home from water damage this summer

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

A Gutter that hasn't been clean and will result in water damage

As we hit the midway point in the summer and the temperatures continue to rise, the experts at SERVPRO want to make sure your home stays dry all season long. With vacations, landscaping, and outdoor use at its height right now, it’s important to be aware of the ways you can leave yourself and your home vulnerable to water and flood damage. We’ve put together some exterior tips to help you keep your water where it’s supposed to be this summer, keeping you hydrated and cool!

Clean out your gutters. Cleaning the gutters is one of those seasonal chores that are always on the list, but none of us want to hop on that ladder and tackle all of the gunk that settles in there. It’s time to stop putting it off! Gutters need to be clean and clear of any debris need to be free of debris and in good condition. Be sure to also keep all downspouts within ten feet of the foundation of your home empty, and all trees trimmed. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow into various spaces of your home, causing significant damage. So break out those ladders, and be sure to hire a professional if your gutters are too high to safely reach yourself.

Take care of your roof. Spot check your roof for any missing or damaged shingles. While you’re scoping that out, keep an eye on any water stains along the bottom of the roof, at the sheathing, truss, and rafters. You also want to make sure all insulation is in good shape by looking for any holes in the attic. Any of these issues could leave the roof of your house vulnerable to a leak, and we know how strong those summer thunderstorms can be, yikes!

Be careful with your landscaping. We all love to give our yards some extra time and attention in the summer, but be aware of the location of some of your landscaping. Stay away from any designs that require bedding material or mound soil to be set up against your home, and don’t ever stack piles of leaves or compost in a place that’s touching the foundation of your home. You also want to avoid those pretty yet pesky vines that climb up the walls of the house, because that can result in cracks later down the road.

Make sure your house is “vacation ready”. Summer wouldn’t be complete without that family getaway, but don’t forget to create a checklist for the home so it stays in great shape while you’re gone! In addition to locking all windows and doors, be sure to close up any vents and skylights to keep the elements out. If you have window air conditioning units, it’s best to turn them completely off, because too much condensation can build up in the drop pans during hot days, causing it to overflow if the pan isn’t emptied regularly.

If you apply these tips, the chances are higher you’ll have a dry home to enjoy all summer long. However, if your house suffers from water or flood damage this season, SERVPRO is here to help. Contact our water removal and cleanup specialists when flooding or water leaks cause water damage. SERVPRO will quickly dry your property using state-of-the-art water removal equipment and advanced drying techniques, documenting the drying process to make sure your property is dry and the job is done right.

If you have mold or water damage, call SERVPRO at 610-546-2484 to schedule a cleanup.  Your SERVPRO professionals of King of Prussia have the training, certifications, and equipment to remediate mold.

Call today for a free estimate, and mention this post and get 10% off all your cleaning needs.

Spring Showers Can Leave Lasting Damage!

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

Soaking up the sun in spring is ideal, however, April showers can leave you soaking up floodwaters instead. If you live in a high flood area, overwhelmed sewer drains can cause waters to rise around your property leading to potential water damage. Water damage is destructive and can leave lasting damage around your property. If you don’t act quickly, mold growth, rust build-up, and rotting wood may permanently damage your home. Here are a few tips on how to dry your home fast after it floods.

Electrical Safety First

Take precaution before entering areas of your home with significant amounts of water. Nearby electrical units, especially furnaces, can be dangerous and must be turned off immediately to avoid personal injury. Call the power company to disconnect electricity if needed.

Drying Up the Water

Once the floodwaters clear, dry your home as quickly as possible. Start by soaking up the water with towels, buckets, or a Shop-vac. Following this, use floor fans and open all doors and fans to improve air circulation in the house.

If needed, dehumidifiers are available to remove embedded moisture in wood floors and walls. In this case, it is important to close windows so that outdoor moisture does not enter the room.

Remove House Decor

Start by placing all furniture and rugs outside to be dried by the sun. After the furniture has been removed, it is important to check the drywall around flooded areas. Drywall may need to be cut and tossed to prevent mildew and other bacteria from growing within the walls.

The source of the floodwaters, like river water, may contain sewage or other bacterial contents. Once damaged items have been removed, make sure to disinfect all surfaces with an anti-bacterial solution or with a bleach and water mix.

Sometimes the water damage to your home is overwhelming. Insulation damage behind the walls can lead to mildew and mold. Electrical wires connected to furnaces, water heaters or gas valves may need to be replaced if not inspected properly. Call your local SERVPRO if you are in need of professional Inspection.

If you have mold or water damage, call SERVPRO at 610-546-2484 to schedule a cleanup.  Your SERVPRO of King of Prussia professionals have the training, certifications, and equipment to remediate mold.

Call today for a free estimate, and mention this post and get 10% off all your cleaning needs.

SERVPRO FIRE RESTORATION™

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know, Even a small fire can cause odors in your home for years to come?  Any fire in your home is bad. But when you try to clean it up yourself, it can be a real disaster.  Especially considering that smoke and soot from even a small fire can cause odors that may resurface for years to come.  So before you risk doing more damage by attempting to clean it up your self, call SERVPRO of King of Prussia.We are your local fire, smoke and soot cleanup and restoration experts.We are always here to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week every single  day of the year. 

WaWa Welcome America Festival Kicks Off This Weekend

6/26/2018 (Permalink)

We’ve finally made it to the WaWa Welcome America Festival, and SERVPRO couldn’t be more thrilled to be part of such an exciting event for Philadelphia, America’s birthplace! The free festival runs from June 28th through July 4th and is going to be jam-packed with community events and displays. There will be a fresh line-up of cultural entertainment and celebratory activities each day, like the United States Army Band concert on Saturday and the Historic Philadelphia Block Party on Tuesday.

Be sure to stop by and say hello to us at the SERVPRO booth where we’ll be giving away some fun swag throughout the event. We have also reserved air-conditioned tents for both our first responders at EMS and our friends at Fire and Police. Head on over for some shade and hydration.

Due to the potential of high heat during this time of year, the local EMS has committed to being available at First Aid Stations all day and will be patrolling to monitor the wellness of everyone in attendance. Be sure to all check out the tips from Philadelphia’s Office of Emergency Management on how to be safe during these celebrations.

SERVPRO aims to assist Welcome America in enhancing the experience of both residents and visitors of Philadelphia. We’re proud to be sponsoring and volunteering at this special event help to foster community relationships and promote our city’s history. We love Philly and look forward to any opportunity to team up with WaWa and work as the official clean-up and restoration company of local events!

We encourage all attendees of the event to stay safe and always be mindful of protecting the homes and business of Philadelphia. Remember that SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are dedicated to responding immediately when you need help with a fire or water damage event. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.

If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call 610-337-3330 or 215-576-8887 or contact us at SERVPRO5038@yahoo.com today!

Serving you since 1967, SERVPRO is the cleaning and restoration brand you know and trust.

Join SERVPRO at the WaWa Welcome America Festival June 29 - July 4

6/11/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a proud sponsor of the WaWa Welcome America Festival, taking place in just a few short weeks from June 29 - July 4th. The 6-day festival features over free multicultural and multigenerational events that celebrate Philadelphia as the birthplace of America. Events like the Sand Sculpture Spectacular will kick things off on Thursday, evening movies will show every night at Panati Playground, and don’t forget about the fireworks!

Welcome America aims to promote American history and education in the city of Philadelphia while enhancing both resident and visitor experiences. These citywide events show what Philadelphia has to offer as an event destination. We at SERVPRO are dedicated to the personal and economic health and the lives of those within our community. This partnership with WaWa Welcome America is intended to enrich this city and provide an opportunity for us to better learn how we can serve your needs and positively impact the health of the spaces you live in.

Thank you to the people of Philadelphia for trusting us to be your first responders in the event of water, fire, mold, or storm damage that threatens the prosperity of your well-being and your home or place of business in Philadelphia. We are proud to serve our local communities:

• King of Prussia
• Conshohocken
• West Conshohocken
• Bridgeport
• Plymouth Township
• Plymouth Meeting
• Valley Forge
• Upper Merion Township
• Abington
• Jenkintown
• Bryn Athen
• Glenside
• Hatboro
• Huntington Valley
• Lower Moreland
• Upper Moreland Lower Providence
• Rockledge
• Roslyn
• Valley Forge
• Willow Grove and surrounding areas

We’re looking forward to celebrating the birth of Philadelphia and America with you at WaWa Welcome America! Stay tuned for details on our booth location and additional details about the event. If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call 610-337-3330 or 215-576-8887 or contact us at SERVPRO5038@yahoo.com today!

Serving you since 1967, SERVPRO is the cleaning and restoration brand you know and trust.

SERVPRO Donates Water to Local First Responders on December 8th!

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

On December 8th, your local SERVPRO of King of Prussia will be giving away free water to support our Philadelphia area first responders. Our team has gathered over 21 pallets and will have them available to pick up from 8AM to 12PM at the Wells Fargo Center (3601 South Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19148).

To confirm an order, please call us at 610-546-2484.  We will need: Please let our team know how much water you would like and who will be picking it up.  If you cannot join us in that window, we can also deliver directly to your fire station, police station, hospital (or other local address).  

SERVPRO of King of Prussia is committed to supporting the great work of local firefighters, police, EMTs, and others we all rely on every day to keep us safe!

Looking forward to seeing you at the Wells Fargo Center on December 8th!

If you have mold or water damage, call SERVPRO at 610-546-2484 to schedule a cleanup.  Your SERVPRO professionals of King of Prussia have the training, certifications, and equipment to remediate mold.

Call today for a free estimate, and mention this post and get 10% off all your cleaning needs.